National Geographic recognized the Eastern Shore as one of the “22 Amazing Journeys for 2022”. The area, within the Atlantic Coastal Plain region, is comprised of the nine counties east of the Chesapeake Bay. The counties are filled with history that dates from the early 1500s and continues to provide immersive experiences that blend seamlessly with local culinary expertise and water-based activities. #Experiencestmichaelsmd
Captain John Smith receives credit as the earliest authenticated explorer of the bay area in 1608 but the land appears on a Spanish map, as Santa Maria, in 1556. An Algonquian indigenous population greeted the Europeans upon arrival, the Nanticoke and Pocomoke-Assateague, many of whom moved west in the 1740s.
Maryland became the first proprietary colony in British North America in 1632 and remained so until July 3, 1776 and in April of 1788 Maryland became the seventh state. As a colony it rebelled against British rule early and zealously even though no battles were fought within the state. Nearly 29,000 Maryland men served in the Continental Army and Maryland Militia from 1775-1783. The troops earned the honorific, the Old Line State”, when they prevented the annihilation of the Continental Army during the Battle of Long Island and subsequent Continental Army retreat in 1776.
St. Michael’s, Maryland is situated at the heart of the Eastern Shore. As a destination it offers all aspects of the region within a walkable area or by accessing the 1.3-mile rails-to-trails bike route, St. Michael’s Nature Trail, path through town. The marina and bay provide a number of water-based activities and stunning views. Along the main thoroughfare there are numerous restaurants, shops and historic structures. St. Michael’s looks and feels as if it has been preserved in amber and fortunate visitors have surprising opportunities to experience everything available within this perfect setting.
The town itself dates from the mid-17th century when tobacco was the primary crop. A trading post was built on the site bringing settlers into the area. The 1672 construction of the Christ Episcopal Church of St Michael Archangel was founded in present day St. Michaels and led to the naming of the town.
The War of 1812 placed St. Michael’s center stage. The town was a shipbuilding center, particularly renowned for building schooners, and the British fleet deemed it and the Chesapeake Bay as primary targets and readied for an attack on August 10, 1813. The town’s militia had no hope of defeating the British forces and firepower and some citizens, aware of their precarious position, began to evacuate, others devised a plan. A total blackout was called for and lanterns were hung high in the trees causing the British to believe it was a hill town and to aim too high and miss the buildings. Only one structure was hit and is known today as the William Merchant Cannonball House. A cannonball pierced the roof and came down the stairs. No Americans were hurt in the attack. St. Michaels is referred to as "the town that fooled the British".
In a unique town one would expect equally singular accommodations and St. Michael’s does not disappoint. The newly opened Wildset Hotel is comprised of four 19th-century structures offering 34 rooms in total. No two rooms are alike and each features sumptuous furnishings and linens, state-of-the-art technology and designer amenities with an ambience that is reminiscent of both the history and the regional setting. Many rooms are equipped with fireplaces and luxurious soaking tubs. Complimentary on-site parking is provided. #thewildset
Complimentary snacks are available en suite and breakfast with Ceremony Coffee is in the lobby area daily. Firepits and s’mores kits are available to guests as well as bicycles and yard games to enhance the Wildset experience.
Sisters Allie Balin and K.C. Lager opened Ruse Restaurant, the in-house dining establishment, to provide an accessible upscale experience incorporating local cuisine, Eastern Shore décor and superior service. The name harkens back to the defining British attack in 1813 when a ruse was used to save the town.
The menu changes seasonally with locally sourced fresh foods that Chef Michael Correll combines to create nuanced tastes in regional dishes. The bar’s inventory is filled with specially chosen, small batch wines. There is an oyster bar with a rotating selection of oysters. Reservations are highly recommended.
To make your holiday visit even more special the Wildset celebrates from December 16-28. Christmas In St. Michaels, the town’s holiday kick-off event, takes place from December 9-11, 2022. Visitors stroll the streets amidst the historic homes and along the bayside. Some homes are listed on a tour. The historic structures in the rural areas are accessed by a holiday shuttle service. https://christmasinstmichaels
On Saturday, December 10, 2022 the St. Michael’s traditional holiday parade on Talbot Street takes place. It showcases expected types of participation in addition to kazoo bands and even llamas. The parade kicks off at 10:30 AM.
An annual Old Fashioned Eastern Shore Christmas Dinner takes place on Saturday, December 10, 2022 from 11 AM – 3 PM. Union United Methodist Church prepares a carryout feast of homemade entrees and desserts. Get a taste of the Holidays past.
Water and boats equal the spectacular Lighted Boat Parade around St. Michael’s Harbor. The parade begins at 6 PM on Saturday, December 10, 2022.
The 2022 Marketplace and Sweet Shoppe returns for the holiday weekend. This is a wonderful opportunity to round out your visit with a purchase of decorations, baked goods, gifts and mementos from this enchanting historic town. An emphasis is placed on sustainable materials and products www.stmichaelsmd.com
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